Quite often people suffer from the problem of weak or brittle nails. When they become of this condition they tend to crack or break easily and spoil the look of the hands. Three primary factors of brittle nails include ageing, over exposure to water and constant use of nail polish. However some of the more serious causes can also include hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, lung conditions, psoriasis, alopecia, eczema, anaemia, fungal infections or even endocrine disorders. Brittle nails can sometimes even indicate on coming illnesses such as hepatitis, jaundice, lupus or even heart disease. Dry and cracked nails that are weak are not only an eye sore but can also cause a lot of discomfort. To prevent the problem from worsening and to treat it easily, try out some of these suggested home remedies to see instant improvements.

1. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is extremely essential to maintain good health of hands and nails. Vitamin E helps to hydrate the skin around the nails and keep the nails moisturised. It is also soaked into the nail buds and nourishes the root of the nail and helps it grow healthier. Use vitamin E oil to fortify your nails by applying it on before bedtime. You can also use some vitamin E bath oil and add it to your bath water or apply it over the nails during a shower. It will also add more moisture with the warm water and make your nails stronger. To get more information about Vitamin E bath oil, click here.

2. Sea Salt Soak

Sea salts are full of essential minerals that are good for improving the quality and health of the nails. It softens hardened cuticles which prevents hangnails and also strengthens brittle nails while giving them a brilliant shine. Mix a few bath sea salts in a bowl of warm water and add a few drops of essential oil. Squeeze half a lemon into this mixture and soak your fingertips in this mixture for ten minutes. After giving your hands a good soak, rinse them off and wipe your hands dry. Then use a hand or nail cream to enhance the effect of the soak and build nail strength. Find a variety of sea salts here.

3. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has many nourishing and enriching properties that strengthen weak or brittle nails. The saturated fats in the oil also work as a wonderful moisturiser and regular use prevents the development of infections from building or spreading in the nails or cuticles. To use it effectively, warm up some coconut oil and apply it individually on each nail. You can also use cotton buds to apply it carefully around the borders of the nail and skin. After application, gently massage the area around the nails and the entire finger to keep the hands moisturised and improve blood circulation. Cover your hands with gloves and head to bed so that the oil can soak into the nails overnight. If you do not have enough time to massage your hands, just warm up so oil in a bowl and dip your fingers into it for a few minutes and cover your hands once again. Find out more information about coconut oil here.

4. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice not only strengthens weak nails and improves their condition, but it’s bleaching properties also remove the yellowness on the nails and makes them appear brighter and more beautiful. Mix a tablespoon of lemon juice with a few drops of olive oil and heat it till it is lukewarm. Dip a cotton ball in the mixture and gently apply it all over the nails and the surrounding area. Wear gloves and leave it on overnight. Alternatively you can also dip your nails in the solution but do not keep them in for more than a few minutes. Follow this two to three times a week and you will start to notice and improvement in your nails.